Cataract Prevention is for all Ages
You might think that cataracts are something that don’t need to be on your radar until a certain age, but, the doctors at Piedmont Eye Care Associate want you to know that there are steps you can take at any age to prevent cataracts. Cataracts are when increased cloudiness in the back or middle of the lens occurs, light rays will then be distorted leading to blurred vision.
While age is the strongest risk factor, there are numerous other factors that can increase your chances of cataracts including:
- Exposure to ultraviolet light
- Hypertension
- Poor diet
- Obesity
- Smoking
Researchers in Sweden recently published results of a study showing an association between a diet high in antioxidants and the incidence of age-related cataracts. According to the American Optometric Association, foods high in antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, Lutein and zeaxanthin may provide protection against cataracts.
Here are five steps you can take at any age to minimize your risk for cataracts.
- Protect your eyes from ultraviolet radiation with high quality sunglasses from a vendor you can trust. Skip glasses that offer no details, look for UV protection and consider these extras for the best coverage. Visit our opticians for the answers to all your questions.
- Eat foods high in vitamin C such as papaya, bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, strawberries, pineapple, oranges, kiwi fruit, cantaloupe and cauliflower!
- Include foods high in vitamin E such as almonds and almond butter, sunflower seeds and sunflower butter, wheat germ, hazelnuts, spinach, dandelion greens, Swiss chard, pine nuts, peanuts and peanut butter, turnip greens, beet greens, broccoli, flaxseed oil, red bell pepper, collard greens, avocados, olive oil, and mangoes.
- Incorporate Kale into your weekly menu planning to gain benefits from the lutein!
- Zeaxanthin, much like Lutein, can be found in egg yolk, yellow fruits and vegetables, and in dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale and collard greens.
The Optometrists at Piedmont EyeCare are scheduling fall appointments. Contact us to schedule your appointment today by clicking here.
